Timboon export Luke Thompson defends against Geelong's Mitch Brown.
Timboon Demons export Luke Thompson will play his second game of the season for the Adelaide Crows and first his first AFL final tonight.
The Crows have recalled the 21-year-old defender, along with utility Ricky Henderson, to replace injured full-back Daniel Talia for tonight’s semi-final against Fremantle.
Coach Brenton Sanderson said Thompson was the “logical” replacement for Talia.
“Luke has the size to play on Matthew Pavlich, Kepler Bradley or Aaron Sandilands,” Sanderson told afc.com.au.
“He’s probably the next key defender in line. We think Andy Otten has missed too much footy through injury. He probably hasn’t got the height to go with Bradley or Sandilands and we need that versatility against Fremantle.”
Thompson has played a total of 12 career games, last appearing for Adelaide in the loss to Geelong at Simonds Stadium in round 18.
The former rookie, who was drafted in 2010 by the Crows as their first pick, made his debut in round four following a shoulder injury to Phil Davis and held his spot for another 10 games, racking up 20 disposals and nine marks against St Kilda in round six.
Henderson returns for his first match since injuring his ankle in the round 16 win over Greater Western Sydney.
The versatile Crow, who signed a new three-year deal during the week, kicked a career-best six goals in his last full game against Port Adelaide in Round 15.
He comes into the side at the expense of tough onballer Aidan Riley, who has been omitted.
“Hendo gives us a different look with his speed and versatility,” Sanderson said.
“He’s played some great roles for us this year.”
- AAP